Kaizer Chiefs are learning just how difficult it will be to land Stellenbosch FC sensation Langelihle Phili, with the Cape Winelands outfit valuing their star winger in the region of R16 million.
Amakhosi have gone to considerable lengths to secure the 21-year-old, tabling an offer that included Ashley Du Preez, George Matlou, and a substantial cash sum. However, the Winelands outfit has remained unmoved.
Early in June, FARPost reported that Chiefs sought to capitalise on Stellenbosch’s long-standing admiration for Du Preez by proposing a player-plus-cash deal. Stellies coach Gavin Hunt is understood to be a keen admirer of the speedy forward and is eager to bring him back to the club.
Du Preez, who joined Amakhosi from Stellenbosch for an R10 million fee ahead of the 2022/23 season, has fallen down the pecking order and is reportedly open to a move back to the Mother City. In addition to the cash and Du Preez, Chiefs are said to have added Matlou to sweeten the deal. But that offer was still not enough to sway Stellenbosch.
Despite the setbacks, the transfer is reportedly far from over. FARPost understands that Chiefs have not abandoned their pursuit and remain hopeful of finding common ground as they look to make squad additions for newly appointed head coach Fernando Da Cruz.
Strengthening the left wing is among the club’s priorities, with Phili viewed as an ideal fit. Coincidentally, Chiefs’ first signing of the transfer window, Thabo Moloisane, arrived from Stellenbosch after opting against renewing his contract.
COMPETITION FOR LANGELIHLE PHILI HEATS UP AMID SOARING VALUATION
The situation is further complicated by interest from Orlando Pirates, who are also understood to be monitoring the player’s availability.
Phili’s value has soared following a breakthrough campaign in which he swept four awards at Stellenbosch’s end-of-season gala.
The former AmaZulu FC reserve team attacker collected the Players’ Player of the Season, Young Player of the Season, Golden Boot and Fans’ Player of the Season awards after scoring nine goals in all competitions.
His pace, versatility, work rate and eye for goal have made him one of the most sought-after young attackers in the Betway Premiership. In the 2025/26 season, he featured in 39 games across all competitions, scoring nine goals and providing one assist. The previous season, he played 32 games, scoring two goals and providing one assist.
Interestingly, the two clubs have previously found themselves in a similar standoff over Fawaaz Basadien. Chiefs pursued the left-back, and Stellenbosch reportedly valued him at around R13 million. In the end, Basadien moved to Mamelodi Sundowns instead.
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